You might think that QR Codes are all the same and there is no difference between the two in this image.
That would be incorrect. The QR Code on the right is an example of the new barcode context that will drive the next barcoding revolution.
The barcode on the left is what we are used to seeing on packaging and other applications.
It is encoded with a URL (https://www.test.com/ProductInfo) that when scanned with a smartphone camera will take the user to a webpage that can contain information about the brand, the product, coupons, competitions or many other possibilities.
The QR Code on the right, however is encoded using the new GS1 Digital Link standard, which opens up a whole world of new possibilities.
The barcode includes this information: https://test.com/01/09506000134352/10/A453D?17=240820
It does everything that the other QR Code can do, but also:
- Can be scanned can checkout in retail stores, replacing the legacy UPC code and allowing the packaging to have just one barcode that is smaller than the UPC.
- Includes the expiration or sell-by date so the point-of-sale (POS) system can identify if the customer is buying an item that has already expired. That would be the case with this one, where the exp date is August 20, 2024.
- It has the batch or lot number encoded – this allows a warning if the product being purchased is part of a lot that has been recalled. It is also helpful for the retailer for inventory control.
- It is possible to encode many other of the GS1 data elements into Digital Link – a unique serial number for each barcode for example can enable total traceability.
As part of GS1’s Sunrise 2027 program, we’ll be seeing a lot more of these Digital Link QR Codes over the next few years. An exciting time for barcoding!
Oh, I created and validated my Digital Link QR Code using Digimarc’s tools
If you are looking at adding the new GS1 barcodes to your own products, you can get the Implimentation Guide here: GS1 Guidlines – 2D in Retail
